Best jazz albums of 2012

CaptionVijay Iyer, "Accelerando" (ACT)

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Already one of the most acclaimed pianists in jazz, Iyer shifts the focus to the undeniable pull of rhythm. In addition to intricate and immediate originals, Iyer gives songs by Duke Ellington, Henry Threadgill and Flying Lotus an inventive drive that moves both head and body.

Already one of the most acclaimed pianists in jazz, Iyer shifts the focus to the undeniable pull of rhythm. In addition to intricate and immediate originals, Iyer gives songs by Duke Ellington, Henry Threadgill and Flying Lotus an inventive drive that moves both head and body. (Getty Images)

A blues-soaked pairing of longtime West Coast collaborators, this duo's taut interplay builds on the strength of seven-string guitar, drums and recession-ravaged titles such as "Ghost Mall" and "Economy with Dignity."

A blues-soaked pairing of longtime West Coast collaborators, this duo's taut interplay builds on the strength of seven-string guitar, drums and recession-ravaged titles such as "Ghost Mall" and "Economy with Dignity." (Lenny Gonzalez / scottamendola.com)